Afterglow: The Anytime Act by John Graham

Effect

The audience sees a magician perform a 22-minute card act with a shuffled, borrowed deck. The act includes seven powerful tricks that flow seamlessly into each other, building to a dramatic climax. Each trick appears impossible, with no setup or preparation required. The magician presents the routines as a cohesive story, making the experience feel like a journey rather than just a series of tricks.

Full Details

Afterglow: The Anytime Act by John Graham is a complete card magic routine designed for impromptu performances. It consists of seven tricks that can be done with any shuffled deck, eliminating the need for pre-arranged cards. The act includes refined versions of well-known tricks such as:

• John Bannon’s Play It Straight Triumph (with Graham’s prequel)
• Jack Miller’s Lazy Man’s Card Trick
• Paul Curry’s Out of This World

The real strength of Afterglow lies in its transitions and scripting. Graham teaches how to connect these tricks smoothly, creating a structured performance that feels like a single, polished act. The hardback book contains over 50 pages of instruction and nearly 50 illustrations.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This act is ideal for magicians who:

• Perform close-up magic in various settings, from small groups to audiences of 20 or more.
• Want a reliable, impromptu routine that requires no setup.
• Are looking for a structured, theatrical performance rather than isolated tricks.
• Appreciate strong scripting and transitions to enhance audience engagement.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty level depends on the performer’s familiarity with card magic. Some tricks in the act, like Out of This World, require intermediate skill. However, Graham provides detailed instructions on handling, transitions, and scripting, making it accessible for dedicated learners. The emphasis is on smooth performance flow rather than overly complex sleight of hand.

What Magicians Say

John Graham describes Afterglow as an act that has "saved" him in performance situations. He emphasizes that while individual tricks can amaze, a well-structured act creates a more memorable experience.

SaturnMagicShop highlights the versatility of the routine, noting that it works well in close-up settings and requires no setup. They also praise the hardback book format for its clear illustrations and detailed instruction.

Graham states, "A good trick can wow your audience, but a good act takes them on a journey." This philosophy is central to Afterglow, making it a valuable resource for magicians who want to elevate their performances.